As an introduction to the poem, I have to say that we have come to experience not all parents age in the same way, ever charting a new path for us to navigate. With my mom, interaction has become an adventure in finding ways to appreciate the good moments and helping her face the knowing fear of forgetfulness and confusion. Time is a lurking pest playing games with her mind. It can frustrate you one day and it can make you smile another. We are in a season that makes me think about my own destiny and what it may be like. Alzheimer's is a disease that is truly shared by loved ones of the one suffering from it. It is with that thought, that I write the following.
The day has come . . . I wish it not,
but when age gives way to repeated stories, remember how our story-time began.
When I forget the details, remind me, fill in the blanks, stay with me.
When I forget the time you said you'd pick me up, call ahead, because you can.
And when I forget what day it is, help me get my bearings.
When my fridge is stocked with margarine containers of this and that
and anything but, remind me that you also have to clean your fridge.
And when expiry dates throw me for a loop - who knew they're everywhere?
Help me organize today and then next week again. I may forget.
When I have found a dress at MCC that the ladies said was made for me -
help me know if the fit is wrong. I really get confused whom I should listen to.
When my tablecloth is stained and my mirrors need a shine,
Do a quick sweep. You know I've always liked things clean.
When I forget your age or the spelling of the name I chose for you,
know that it was I who dreamed your dreams before you could,
praying for guidance and for the best in all of life for you -
your joys and successes ever mine to cherish.
And should today's stories and confusion overshadow days gone by,
making things that made you proud of me become a distant memory,
tell me who I am to you - remind me of those things again -
so I may know - the me I was - will ever be the one remembered in your heart.
20 comments:
what a great poem and reminder!
Simply beautiful. Warm thoughts and hugs to you, Anneliese!
I loved this! But didn't like it all at the same time, if you know what I mean. :)
Oh dear Anneliese, your sweet poem made me cry. God bless you as you honor your dear old mom and navigate through all that is ahead...
Beautifully written, Anneliese. As a daughter who has navigated this journey with her own mom, I can relate to your words. My thought are with you and your dear mother as you travel this road.
Such warm, beautiful thoughts...and truth in every line. Praying for you and your mother as you walk this road toward Home. Ann
Oh Anneliese - I read this with tears in my eyes - for your dear mom, for you and your family and above all for the lovingly expressed compassion that went into this poem. Praying for you all.
Wiping the tears, thank you Anneliese!
Oh this is so beautiful Anneliese - here a dry eye over here! Huge hugs to you as you go through these precious times with your dear mom!
That should read "not" a dry eye over here!
Tears prick as I read this poem of love. Hugs,
I read your poem through tears. You are a wonderful care giver....more so a wonderful daughter to your precious mom.
Anneliese this is so beautiful. It is something we can all relate to. It makes me pause to think about our Moms and our daughters.
So touching, Anneliese! Wishing you many blessings as you journey this stretch of the road with your beloved mom.
This has made me more than a little teary, Anneleise. My mother and I are at the same stage if life. Many of our conversations seem to take place in the past or be about the imminent arrival of sisters and brothers long gone from this life. It's a time of intense closeness and love shown at every turn. My Mum may be losing the threads of her memory but she still knows me and likes to sit quietly, holding hands. Thank you for sharing the poem.
Visited my 93 year old Mom today and can certainly identify with all of these things....
Thank you for the reminder to be patient with the Mother who raised me and loved me.
My Mom passed away in June after a few short months of talking about those who are no longer here, repeating stories, wondering why Dad didn't come to see her, etc. -- it was difficult but I'll never regret being her caregiver and helping her along the way as she became "farther away". Blessings on you as you care for your mother in her time of need. Your poem is so beautiful!
What a beautiful poem!! And such a good reminder to cherish the moments such as they are.
Thank you to all of you for sharing a moment with me here by your presence, your thoughts and/or your tears. I feel understood and hugged.
Just catching up on posts now after being away. Your gift of expressing what many of us experience is such a blessing. My eyes are brimming as I read life as it is right now.God grant His serenity for you both in it all. Love Gloria
Post a Comment